2025 Petrol SUVs India : Even as electric cars grab headlines and government incentives, Indian buyers continue to pick petrol-powered SUVs in huge numbers. In the first ten months of 2025, petrol and diesel SUVs together made up nearly 65% of all passenger-vehicle sales, according to data from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).
The reasons are straightforward: widespread fuel stations, lower upfront cost than full EVs, proven reliability on long highway trips, and — most importantly — the instant power and fun-to-drive feel that many Indian families still love.
For 2025 and early 2026, almost every major carmaker is readying fresh or heavily updated petrol SUVs. These new models bring sharper looks, bigger touchscreens, Level-2 driver-assistance systems, and more refined engines. Here are the three most awaited ones that are creating real buzz on the road and online.
2025 Hyundai Creta: A Complete Ground-Up Redesign
The Hyundai Creta has been India’s best-selling mid-size SUV for years — often crossing 15,000 units a month. The version launching in early 2025 isn’t just a mid-cycle refresh; it’s an all-new second generation built on a stronger platform.
You’ll notice a bolder, more upright front grille, sleek full-width LED light bars, and a cleaner, more premium silhouette that looks closer to Hyundai’s global models like the Tucson. Inside, expect dual 10.25-inch screens merged into one panoramic display, wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera, and even a panoramic sunroof on higher trims.
Power comes from updated 1.5-litre naturally aspirated and turbo-petrol engines that promise smoother power delivery and slightly better mileage (around 17–18 km/l on the highway, according to early tests). Automotive analyst Hormazd Sorabjee calls it “the new benchmark for value, features and everyday usability in the segment.” If you want a stylish, tech-loaded family SUV under ₹20 lakh, the new Creta is likely to stay at the top of most shopping lists.
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Turbo: Finally the Fun Version Arrives
The current Grand Vitara is loved for its strong hybrid system and Maruti’s massive service network, but many enthusiasts felt it lacked excitement. That changes in 2025.
Maruti is bringing back a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine (the same K15C unit with around 160–170 hp that we loved in the discontinued S-Cross). Paired with a 6-speed manual or torque-converter automatic, the turbo Grand Vitara should sprint from 0–100 km/h in under 9 seconds — easily the quickest in its class.
Expect subtle styling tweaks — new alloy designs, smoked LED tail lamps, and possibly a dual-tone cabin — plus extras like a head-up display and six airbags across variants. For buyers who do a lot of highway kilometers and want punchy performance without jumping to pricier rivals, this could be the sweet spot.
Mahindra XUV700 Petrol: More Power, Sharper Looks
The XUV700 already impresses with its bold road presence and segment-first features like Level-2 ADAS and a panoramic skyroof. The 2025 update focuses on making the petrol version even more appealing.
Mahindra is sharpening the front fascia with slimmer LED headlights and a larger grille, while the cabin gets softer materials, a bigger 12-speaker Sony audio system, and refreshed interface graphics. The proven 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine (200 hp, 380 Nm) receives minor tuning for smoother low-end response and marginally better fuel efficiency.
Safety remains a highlight — it already holds a 5-star Global NCAP rating, and the updated model adds more radar-based assists. Auto experts believe the refreshed XUV700 will strengthen its position as the most powerful and spacious three-row petrol SUV under ₹25 lakh, perfect for big families who love road trips.
Why These Launches Matter Right Now
Together, these three models will fight in the hottest segment of the Indian market — mid-size SUVs priced between ₹12–25 lakh. With waiting periods still stretching to several months on popular variants, the new petrol powertrains give buyers more choices before the stricter CAFÉ Phase-2 norms kick in from 2026 and push prices upward.
If you’re planning to buy an SUV in the next 12 months, 2025–2026 is shaping up to be one of the best times in years.